Grill and side cart attachment systems and methods

ABSTRACT

Embodiments herein relate to grill systems. In an embodiment, a grill system is included. The grill system having a grill assembly and a first side assembly. The grill assembly can include a grill cart and a burner box configured to couple to a top portion of the grill cart. The burner box can include a first connection structure. The first side assembly that can include a first side cart and a first top cap configured to couple to a top portion of the first side cart. The first top cap can include a second connection structure. The first connection structure and the second connection structure mate together to couple the grill assembly to the first side assembly. Other embodiments are also included herein.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/450,303, filed Jun. 24, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/690,700, filed Jun. 27, 2018, the contentof which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The following five nonprovisional applications also claim priority toU.S. Provisional Application No. 62/690,700, are co-owned, and are filedon the event date herewith: U.S. application Ser. No. 16/450,356,titled, “Securing of Panels to Grill System,” having Attorney Docket No.277.0004USU1; U.S. application Ser. No. 16/450,388, titled, “GrillSystem with Decorative Panels,” having Attorney Docket No. 277.0005USU1;U.S. application Ser. No. 16/450,493, titled, “Gas Guard in Grill Cart,”having Attorney Docket No. 277.0006USU1; U.S. application Ser. No.16/450,510, titled, “Side Cart Locking Mechanism,” having AttorneyDocket No. 277.0007USU1; and U.S. application Ser. No. 16/450,541,titled, “Grill Assembly with Foldable Cart,” having Attorney Docket No.277.0012USU1; the contents of which for each application are hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety.

The following four design applications are co-owned and are filed on theevent date herewith: U.S. Design application No. 29/695,966, titled,“Grill System,” having Attorney Docket No. 277.0013US01; U.S. Designapplication No. 29/695,969, titled, “Grill Assembly,” having AttorneyDocket No. 277.0014US01; U.S. Design application No. 29/695,973, titled,“Grill Cart,” having Attorney Docket No. 277.0015US01; U.S. Designapplication No. 29/695,976, titled, “Side Assembly,” having AttorneyDocket No. 277.0016US01; the contents of which for each application areherein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The present application relates to grills and outdoor cooking systems.More specifically, the present application relates to modular grills andoutdoor cooking systems.

BACKGROUND

Grilling is a cooking style that is especially popular in the UnitedStates. Grills are frequently not particularly portable or easy to setup. In many cases, grills are difficult to assemble due to numeroussteps requiring the user to construct a frame with numerous components.

Attempts have been made to design grills that are easy to assemble afterunloading from shipping containers. However, in many past systems, grillsystems include a large number of pieces, require numerous steps toassemble, and some assembly steps require tools.

Some past systems mount a firebox on a foldable stand. However, thefoldable stands can require complex set-up steps and, even in the foldedconfiguration, some of the foldable stands take-up significant space.

Permanent outdoor grill installations are increasingly popular, andallow consumers to choose many finishes and options to create anattractive and functional outdoor kitchen environment. Theseinstallations are very expensive, and lack the flexibility of a moveablegrill system.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, a grill system is included. The grill system caninclude a grill assembly and a side assembly. The grill assembly caninclude a grill cart and a burner box configured to couple to a topportion of the grill cart. The burner box can include a first connectionstructure. The first side assembly can include a first side cart and afirst top cap configured to couple to a top portion of the first sidecart. The first top cap can include a second connection structure. Thefirst connection structure and the second connection structure matetogether to couple the grill assembly to the first side assembly.

In an embodiment, the first connection structure includes a firstprojection and a second projection extending in a similar direction fromthe same side of the burner box. The second connection structure definesa first connection aperture and a second connection aperture. The firstconnection aperture is configured for a portion of the first projectionto fit within and the second connection aperture is configured for aportion of the second projection to fit within.

In an embodiment, the burner box further includes a third connectionstructure. The third connection structure includes a third projectionand a fourth projection extending in a similar direction from a side ofthe burner box that is opposite from the side in which the first andsecond projections extend from.

In an embodiment, the grill system can further include a second sideassembly. The second side assembly can include a second side cart and asecond top cap. The second top cap includes a fourth connectionstructure. The fourth connection structure defines a third connectionaperture and a fourth connection aperture. The third connection apertureis configured for a portion of the third projection to fit within andthe fourth connection aperture is configured for a portion of the fourthprojection to fit within.

In an embodiment, the first side assembly is configured in a right-handconfiguration such that the second connection structure is on a leftportion of the first side assembly and the second side assembly isconfigured in a left-hand configuration such that the fourth connectionstructure is on a right portion of the second side assembly.

In an embodiment, the first projection is at least 2 inches long and notmore than 12 inches long, and the second projection is at least 2 incheslong and not more than 12 inches long.

In an embodiment, the first projection is identical to the secondprojection.

In an embodiment, the first connection structure is graspable.

In an embodiment, the first top cap includes a functional elementselected from the group consisting of: a second burner box, an ice box,a smoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous videcooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a portion of a pelletgrill, pellet feeder, pellet hopper, a pellet grill, or a refrigerator.

In an embodiment, the grill system can further include a second sideassembly. The second side assembly can include a second side cart and asecond top cap configured to couple to a top portion of the second topcap. The second top cap can include a fourth connection structureconfigured to mate with a third connection structure of the burner box.

In an embodiment, the first top cap includes a first functional elementselected from the group consisting of a second burner box, an ice box, asmoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous videcooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portionof a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator;wherein the second top cap includes a second functional element selectedfrom the group consisting of a second burner box, an ice box, a smoker,an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous vide cooker, ahigh heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portion of apellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator.

In an embodiment, the first functional element is not equivalent to thesecond functional element.

Various embodiments of a method of assembling a grill system areprovided. In an embodiments, the method can include aligning a burnerbox with a top portion of a grill cart, wherein the burner box includesa first connection structure; coupling the burner box to the grill cartto form a grill assembly; aligning a first top cap with a first sidecart, wherein the first top cap includes a second connection structure;coupling the first top cap with the first side cart to form a first sideassembly; aligning the first side assembly with the grill assembly; andcoupling the first side assembly to the grill assembly by mating thefirst connection structure with the second connection structure.

In an embodiment, the first connection structure includes a firstprojection and a second projection. The second connection structuredefines a first connection aperture and a second connection aperture.The first connection aperture is configured for a portion of the firstprojection to fit within and the second connection aperture isconfigured for a portion of the second projection to fit within.Coupling the first side assembly to the grill assembly includes:inserting a portion of the first projection into the first connectionaperture, and inserting a portion of the second projection into thesecond connection aperture.

In an embodiment, the method can include: aligning a second top cap witha second side cart, wherein the second top cap includes a fourthconnection structure; coupling the second top cap with the second sidecart to form a second side assembly; aligning the second side assemblywith the grill assembly on an opposite side of the grill assembly fromthe first side assembly; and coupling the second side assembly with thegrill assembly by mating a third connection structure with the fourthconnection structure, wherein the burner box includes the thirdconnection structure.

In an embodiment, the method can include: transitioning the first sidecart from a folded position to an upright position prior to coupling thefirst side assembly to the grill assembly; and transitioning the secondside cart from a folded position to an upright position prior tocoupling the second side assembly to the grill assembly.

In an embodiment, the first connection structure includes a firstprojection and a second projection, and the third connection structureincludes a third projection and a fourth projection; wherein the secondconnection structure defines a first connection aperture and a secondconnection aperture, wherein the first connection aperture is configuredfor a portion of the first projection to fit within and the secondconnection aperture is configured for a portion of the second projectionto fit within; wherein the fourth connection structure defines a thirdconnection aperture and a fourth connection aperture, wherein the thirdconnection aperture is configured for a portion of the third projectionto fit within and the fourth connection aperture is configured for aportion of the fourth projection to fit within; wherein coupling thefirst side assembly to the grill assembly includes: inserting a portionof the first projection into the first connection aperture, andinserting a portion of the second projection into the second connectionaperture; wherein coupling the second side assembly to the grillassembly includes: inserting a portion of the third projection into thethird connection aperture, and inserting a portion of the fourthprojection into the fourth connection aperture.

In an embodiment, the first top cap includes a first functional elementselected from the group consisting of a second burner box, an ice box, asmoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous videcooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portionof a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator;wherein the second top cap includes a second functional element selectedfrom the group consisting of a second burner box, an ice box, a smoker,an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous vide cooker, ahigh heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portion of apellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator;wherein the first functional element is not equivalent to the secondfunctional element.

In an embodiment, the first top cap includes a functional elementselected from the group consisting of: a second burner box, an ice box,a smoker, an oven, a sink a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous videcooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portionof a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator.

In an embodiment, the method can include: transitioning the first sidecart from a folded position to an upright position prior to coupling thefirst side assembly to the grill assembly.

In an embodiment, a grill system is included. The grill system caninclude a grill assembly and a first side assembly. The grill assemblycan include a grill cart and a burner box configured to couple to a topportion of the grill cart. The burner box can include a first connectionstructure. The first side assembly can include a first side cart and afirst top cap configured to couple to a top portion of the first sidecart. The first top cap can include a second connection structure. Thefirst side cart is configured to be transitioned between a folded stateand an upright state. The first connection structure and the secondconnection structure mate together to couple the grill assembly to thefirst side assembly. The first top cap includes a first functionalelement selected from the group consisting of: a second burner box, anice box, a smoker, an oven, a sink a work surface, a warming drawer, asous vide cooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill,a portion of a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or arefrigerator.

In an embodiment, the grill system can include: a second side assemblycan include a second side cart and a second top cap configured to coupleto a top portion of the second side cart, the second top cap can includea further connection structure. The second side cart is configured to betransitioned between a folded state and an upright state. The burner boxfurther includes a third connection structure. The second top capincludes a second functional element selected from the group consistingof: a second burner box, an ice box, a smoker, an oven, a sink a worksurface, a warming drawer, a sous vide cooker, a high heat burner, aceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portion of a pellet grill, a pellethopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator.

This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the presentapplication and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustivetreatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found inthe detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will beapparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understandingthe following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form apart thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. Thescope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legalequivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with thefollowing figures (FIGS.), in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of a grill system in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a grill system in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a grill system in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 4 is a front view of a grill assembly in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 5 is a front view of a grill assembly in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a grill assembly in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a burner box in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a grill cart in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a side assembly in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 10 is a front view of a side assembly in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a top cap being coupled to a side cartin accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a top cap above a side cart, where abottom perspective view of the top cap is shown and a top perspectiveview of a top portion of the side cart is shown, in accordance withvarious embodiments herein.

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the top cap of FIG. 12 in accordance withvarious embodiments herein.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a side assembly in accordance withvarious embodiments herein.

FIG. 15 is a side view of a side cart in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 16A-16I are perspective views showing various top caps inaccordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 17 is a front view of a grill system including a connectionsequence drawings insert in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a connection structure in accordancewith various embodiments herein.

FIG. 19 is a front view of a grill system including a connectionsequence drawings insert in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 20A is a schematic of the connection of a top cap with a side cartin accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 20B is a schematic of the connection of a top cap with a side cartin accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 21 is flow chart depicting a method in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

While embodiments are susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of exampleand drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particular aspectsdescribed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications,equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scopeherein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described below and shown in the figures are various embodiments ofcomponents that can be included in a grill system. The grill system caninclude a grill assembly and one or more side assemblies. The grillassembly can include a burner box, which can be used to cook foods, suchas meats and vegetables. Each side assembly can include a functional topcap to provide additional functionality to the grill system.

The grill and side assemblies can be shipped or transported in a foldedconfiguration. In the folded configuration, the grill and sideassemblies can have a smaller volume compared to the uprightconfigurations. The smaller volume can reduce the cost of storing andtransporting the components.

The grill and side assemblies described herein can be easily assembled.In many cases, the grill and side assemblies can be assembled by asingle user or only two users. In many examples, the grill and sideassemblies can be assembled without the use of tools. In many examples,the grill and side assemblies can be assembled quickly, such as in lessthan three minutes for each component.

In many examples, the grill systems described herein can provide ahighly customizable, an easily assembled, and an easily installedoutdoor kitchen environment. The grill systems described herein caninclude interchangeable functional top caps, such that a user cancustomize the grill system according to his or her needs and level ofsophistication. The systems can include decorative side panels and/ordecorative toe kick panels to provide a cohesive look to all of thecomponents within the system. In some examples, decorative side and toekick panels can be configured to attach at various different locationswithin the system, such that the same decorative side panel and toe kickpanel can be used with multiple configurations of the system. There arenot currently any systems available that provide the benefits of thesystems and methods described herein.

Grill System with Grill Assembly and Side Assemblies

The figures show various views and embodiments of grill systems andcomponents. FIG. 1 shows a grill system 100 including a grill assembly102 and a side assembly 104. The grill assembly 102 can include a grillcart 106 and a burner box 108 (also referred to as a “firebox”) coupledto a top portion of the grill cart 106. The side assembly 104 caninclude a side cart 110 and a top cap 112. The top cap 112 can becoupled to a top portion of the side cart 110.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of a grill system 100 in accordance withvarious embodiments herein. In some embodiments, the grill system 100can include a grill assembly 102, and two or more side assemblies 104.Each of the side assemblies 104 can include a side cart 110 and a topcap 112. In some embodiments, the side assemblies 104 can be disposed onopposite sides of the grill assembly 102, such as shown in FIG. 2. Insome embodiments, the side assemblies 104 can be disposed on the sameside of the grill assembly 102, such as shown in FIG. 3. In otherembodiments, the grill system 100 can include additional side assemblies104, such as three, four, five, six, or more side assemblies 104.

In some embodiments, all of the side assemblies 104 can be located onone side of the grill assembly 102, such as shown in FIG. 3. In someembodiments, side assemblies 104 can be located on both sides of thegrill assembly 102, such as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, anequal number of side assemblies 104 can be located on either side of thegrill assembly 102. In some embodiments, the number of side assemblies104 on one side of the grill assembly 102 can be greater than or lessthan the number of side assemblies 104 on the other side of the grillassembly 102.

In various embodiments, the burner box 108 can include a firstconnection structure, and the top cap 112 can include a secondconnection structure. The first connection structure can be configuredto mate with the second connection structure to couple the grillassembly 102 to the side assembly 104.

In some embodiments, the grill assembly 102 can include a toe kick panel114. The toe kick panel 114 can be coupled to a grill cart 106. In someembodiments, the side assembly 104 can include a toe kick panel 114. Thetoe kick panel 114 can be coupled to a side cart 110. In someembodiments, the toe kick panel 114 of the grill assembly 102 caninclude a connection feature and the toe kick panel 114 of the sideassembly 104 can include a connection feature, such as two portions of alatch mechanism. The connection features of the two toe kick panels 114can be coupled together to couple the grill assembly 102 with the sideassembly 104. In some embodiments, the connection features of the toekick panels 114 can be like other connection mechanisms describedherein, such as the connection mechanism for coupling the burner box 108to the grill cart 106, or the connection mechanism for coupling thegrill assembly 102 with a side assembly 104.

In some embodiments, the grill cart 106 can include one or more panelson the sides of the grill cart 106. In some embodiments, the grill cart106 can include a toe kick panel 114. In some embodiments, the toe kickpanel 114 and the panel can include a common decorative design toprovide a cohesive appearance.

Grill Assembly

In reference now to FIG. 4, a front view of a grill assembly 102 isshown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The grill assembly102 can include a burner box 108 coupled to a top portion of a grillcart 106.

Burner Box

The burner box 108 can be used to heat or cook foods. The burner box 108can include an interior volume, which food is place into. The burner box108 can include one or more grill grates disposed within the interiorvolume. The grill grates can be configured to support food which isbeing cooked or heated in the burner box 108. The burner box 108 caninclude a connection for a gas supply, such as a gas supply from a tankwithin the grill cart 106 or a connection to permanent gas supply, suchas a commercial or residential gas supply.

The burner box 108 can include one or more burners within the interiorvolume, the burners can be configured to burn the gas and create heat inthe interior volume. In some embodiments, the burner box 108 can burncharcoal, wood, or other fuel sources. In some embodiments, the burnerbox 108 can have the form of a pellet grill. In some embodiments, theburner box 108 can have the form of a charcoal grill. In someembodiments, the burner box 108 can include one or more control units416, such as dials, buttons, or switches. The control units 416 can beconfigured to allow a user to start the flow of fuel, stop the flow offuel, change the fuel flow rate, or ignite the fuel. In someembodiments, the grill cart 106 can include one or more control units416. In some embodiments, the burner box 108 can include a thermometer418, such as to measure the temperature of the interior volume.

Grill Cart

The grill cart 106 can provide a support or a stand for the burner box108. The grill cart 106 can include a bottom portion 520 and a topportion 522 (shown in FIG. 5). The burner box 108 can be coupled to thetop portion 522 of the grill cart 106. In some embodiments, the bottomportion 520 can include wheels 524, or casters, such as to provide easyportability for the grill assembly 102. In some embodiments, the wheels524 can include a brake or lock to prevent the wheels from rotatingthereby preventing the cart from moving. In various embodiments, thebottom portion 520 can include adjustable leveling feet or adjustableleveling wheels to allow a user to adjust the height of the feet orwheels, such as to accommodate for uneven surfaces, which can be commonin outdoor applications.

The grill cart 106 can include one or more doors 526. The doors 526 canprovide access to the interior of the grill cart 106. In variousembodiments, the interior of the grill cart 106 can house a gas tank.The gas tank can supply the burner box 108 with gas. In someembodiments, the interior of the grill cart 106 can be configured tohouse or store other related equipment, such as tongs, spatulas, orbrushes.

FIG. 5 shows a front view of the grill assembly 102 with the burner box108 uncoupled from the grill cart 106. FIG. 6 shows a side view of thegrill assembly 102 with the burner box 108 coupled to the grill cart106. The burner box 108 can be coupled to the grill cart 106 via one ormore latch mechanisms 528. In various embodiments, the burner box 108can include a first portion 530 of the latch mechanism 528, and thegrill cart 106 can include a second portion 532 of the latch mechanism528. FIG. 6 shows the latch mechanism 528 coupling the burner box 108with the grill cart 106. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a burner box108 according to various embodiments, where the first portion 530 of thelatch mechanism 528 is shown.

In some embodiments, the first portion 530 includes a projection ortongue 534 (FIG. 7) extending away from and below the burner box 108. Invarious embodiments, the second portion 532 defines an aperture, areceiving bracket or a receiving pocket. Coupling the burner box 108with the grill cart 106 can include inserting the tongue 534 of thefirst portion 530 into the aperture, receiving bracket, or receivingpocket of the second portion 532. In some embodiments, the first portion530 can define the aperture, receiving bracket, or receiving pocket, andthe second portion 532 can include the projection or tongue.

In some embodiments, the first portion 530 can further include a hoop,ring, hook, or other device 536 that defines an opening (FIG. 7). Theexample shown in FIGS. 6-7 is a buckle structure that has a portion thatrotates to move the buckle structure between open and a closedpositions. The example shown in FIGS. 6-7 has two first portions 530 oneach side of the burner box 108 and two second portions 532 on each sideof the grill cart 106.

The second portion 532 can include a projection 538 (FIG. 6) for matingwith the loop 536 of the buckle of the first portion 530. The firstportion 530 can be configured to receive the projection from the secondportion 532 into the opening defined by the loop 536. In variousembodiments, the first portion 530 can transition between an openposition and a closed position. In the open position the opening caneasily receive the projection. In the closed position, the projectioncan be secured in the opening. FIG. 7 shows a view of the first portion530 in the open position without the second portion 532. In otherembodiments, the second portion 532 can include a hoop, ring, hook, orother device that defines an opening, and the first portion 530 caninclude a projection for mating with the loop of the second portion 532.

Other options for coupling a burner box to a grill cart are described inco-owned U.S. application Ser. No. 15/937,666 filed on Mar. 27, 2018,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a burner box 108 according to variousembodiments. In various embodiments, the burner box 108 can include abracket 729 or protrusion, that can extend away from the burner box 108and provide a graspable handle. The bracket 729 can be configured toinclude or serve as a first connection structure 1746 to connect to amating second connection structure on a side assembly 104. Further, insome embodiments, the bracket 729 can provide an extension for the firstconnection structure, such as to extend the first connection structureaway from the burner box 108 into the top cap 112, as shown in FIG. 17.In some embodiments, a shelf or two shelves can be provided as a part ofthe grill system, where the shelf or shelves are configured to couple tothe bracket 729 in the place of a side assembly 104 or a top cap 112.

Referring again to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the burner box 108 caninclude two brackets 729. The brackets 729 can be spaced apart toprovide adequate support for the connection between the burner box 108and a top cap 112. In various embodiments, the bracket 729 can include arounded top portion and/or a rounded bottom portion, such as to providea more comfortable handle for a user to grasp during the process ofassembling the grill. In some embodiments, a rounded top portionincludes a rounded top left side and a rounded top right side, as shownin FIGS. 6 and 7. In some embodiments, a rounded bottom portion includesa rounded bottom left side and a rounded bottom right side, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7. In some embodiments, the bracket 729 includes a baseportion 730 that is configured to attach the bracket 729 to the burnerbox 108. The bracket 729 may be formed from a single piece of metal thatis bent to form the top portion and bottom portion, such as to providethe rounded top portion and rounded bottom portion, as shown in theembodiment of FIG. 7. The base portion 730 may include one or more, suchas two, apertures for bolts or other connecting elements used to securethe bracket 729 to the burner box 108.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a grill cart 106 in folded configurationin accordance with various embodiments herein. In various embodiments,the grill cart 106 can be transitioned between a folded state and anupright state. In an upright state, the grill cart 106 can provide abase or stand for the burner box 108. In the folded state, the grillcart 106 can be easily transported or stored. When in a folded state thegrill cart 106 can have a smaller volume compared to when the grill cart106 is in the upright state. In various embodiments, the grill cart 106can be transitioned between the folded state and upright state withoutany tools. Various examples of grill carts with pivoting and rotatingpanels to allow the cart to transition between a folded state and anupright state can be found in co-owned U.S. application Ser. No.15/937,666 filed on Mar. 27, 2018 and U.S. application Ser. No.15/262,733 filed on Sep. 12, 2016, which are hereby incorporated byreference in their entirety.

Side Assemblies

In reference now to FIG. 9, a front view of a side assembly 104 is shownin accordance with various embodiments herein. In various embodiments,the side assemblies can be configured in a right-hand configuration,such that the side assembly 104 is configured to be coupled to the rightside of the grill assembly 102. Similarly, a side assembly 104 can alsobe in a left-hand configuration, such that the side assembly 104 isconfigured to be coupled to the left side of the grill assembly 102.

In some embodiments, the connection elements for the connection betweenthe grill assembly 102 and a side assembly 104 can include a maleconnection portion and a female connection portion. In some embodiments,the connection portions can be interchangeable, such as to convert aside assembly 104 in a left-hand configuration to a right-handconfiguration, such as to allow a user to rearrange the components inthe grill system 100.

Side Cart

The side cart 110 can provide a support or a stand for the top cap 112.In some embodiments, the side cart 110 can include a front frame, a backframe and one or two side frames. The side cart 110 can include a bottomportion 1034 and a top portion 1036 (shown in FIG. 10). The top cap 112can be coupled to the top portion 1036 of the side cart 110. In someembodiments, the bottom portion 1034 can include wheels 1038, orcasters, such as to provide easy portability for the side assembly 104.In some embodiments, the wheels 1038 can include a brake or lock toprevent the wheels from rotating thereby preventing the cart frommoving. Similar to the grill cart 106, in various embodiments, thebottom portion 1034 can include adjustable leveling feet or adjustableleveling wheels to allow a user to adjust the height of the feet orwheels, such as to accommodate for uneven surfaces.

The side cart 110 can include one or more doors 1040. The doors 1040 canprovide access to the interior of the side cart 110. In variousembodiments, the interior of the side cart 110 can include one or moreshelves. In some embodiments, the interior of the side cart 110 can beconfigured to house or store equipment.

In some embodiments, the side cart 110 can include a panel on the sideof the side cart 110 that faces away from the grill assembly 102. Insome embodiments, the side cart 110 can include a toe kick panel 114. Insome embodiments, the toe kick panel 114 and the panel can include acommon decorative design to provide a cohesive appearance. Further, thetoe kick panel 114 and the panel on the grill cart 106 can include acommon decorative design with the toe kick panel 114 and the panel onthe side cart 110.

Top Cap

In various embodiments, the top cap 112 can include a functionalelement. In some embodiments, the functional element can include one ofthe following: a second burner box, an ice box, a smoker, an oven, asink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous vide cooker, a high heatburner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, or a refrigerator. In someembodiments, the function element can include a portion of a pelletgrill, a portion of a smoker, a portion of a refrigerator, or a portionof another component. In some embodiments, the top cap 112 can include aportion of a pellet grill, such as a hopper, a feeder or an ignitionelement. In some embodiments of a grill system 100 with two or more sideassemblies 104, each of the top caps 112 can include a differentfunctional element. In some embodiments of a grill system 100 with twoor more side assemblies 104, at least two of the functional elements canbe the same. In some embodiments of a grill system 100 with two or moreside assemblies 104, at least two of the functional elements can bedifferent.

FIG. 10 shows a front view of a side assembly 104 with the top cap 112uncoupled from the side cart 110.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a top cap 112 being aligned with aside cart 110 to couple the top cap 112 with the side cart 110. Invarious embodiments, the top cap 112 can include one or more projections1042 configured to be disposed in one or more recesses 1143 defined bythe side cart 110. In some embodiments, the top cap 112 can include oneprojection 1042 in each of the corners, such as shown in FIG. 11. Theside cart 110 can define a recess 1143 in each of the corners to alignwith the projections 1042.

In some embodiments, the top cap 112 can also include a lockingmechanism 1044. The locking mechanism 1044 can include a pin thatextends perpendicular to the projection 1042, such as shown in anddescribed herein with reference to FIGS. 20A and 20B.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a top cap 112 above a side cart 110,where a bottom perspective view of the top cap is shown and a topperspective view of the side cart is shown. The top cap 112 ispositioned above the side cart 110 and is not yet coupled to a side cart110. FIG. 13 shows a bottom view of a top cap 112. The projections 1042can be aligned and inserted into the recesses 1143 in the side cart 110.In some embodiments the top cap 112 can include two locking mechanisms,such as a first locking mechanism 1044 and a second locking mechanism1244 shown in FIGS. 12-13. Each locking mechanism secures the top cap112 to the side cart 110. In other embodiment, a single lockingmechanism is provided, three locking mechanisms are provided, or fourlocking mechanisms are provided. Each locking mechanism can be providednear a corner of the side assembly.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 12-13, the top cap 112 caninclude a locking mechanism 1044 at one corner and the side cart 110 caninclude a locking mechanism 1244, at another corner. In someembodiments, the first locking mechanism 1044 is on the top cap 112 andthe second locking mechanism 1244 is on the side cart 110. The firstlocking mechanism 1044 can include a pin 1210 that, in the lockedposition, can extend into a post 1212, such as through aperture 1233shown in FIG. 12. Because the pin 1210 extends from the top cap 112 intothe aperture 1233 that is defined by post 1212 of the side cart 110, thepin 1210 secures the top cap 112 to the side cart 110. Optionally, thepin 1210 may further extend beyond the wall of the post and into therecess 1236 defined in the corresponding projection 1042 of the top cap112. In one embodiment, after the top cap 112 is placed onto the sidecart 110, the pin 1210 is slid toward the post 1212 to move between anunlocked position and a locked position.

Similarly, the locking mechanism 1244 on the side cart 110 can include apin that is slid between an unlocked position and a locked position. Thepin of the locking mechanism 1244 is not visible in FIG. 12, but thelocking mechanism 1244 can be substantially identical to the lockingmechanism 1044. In the locked position, the pin of the locking mechanism1244 can extend through a post 1240 that defines the recess 1143 andinto a projection 1042, such as into the recess 1335 defined in theprojection 1042 shown in FIG. 13. Because the pin of the lockingmechanism 1244 extends from the side cart 110 into the recess 1335defined in the projection of the top cap 112, the pin secures the topcap 112 to the side cart 110.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the side assembly 104 with the topcap 112 coupled to the side cart 110. FIG. 15 is a side view of a sidecart 110 in a folded configuration in accordance with variousembodiments herein. In various embodiments, the side cart 110 can betransitioned between a folded state and an upright state. In an uprightstate, the side cart 110 can provide a base or stand for the top cap112. In the folded state, the side cart 110 can be easily transported orstored. In a folded state the side cart 110 can have a smaller volumecompared to when the side cart 110 is in the upright state. In variousembodiments, the grill cart 106 can be transitioned between the foldedstate and uprights state without any tools.

FIG. 16A-16I show perspective views of various different embodiments oftop caps 112. In various embodiments, the top cap 112 can include asink, such as shown in FIG. 16A. In various embodiments, the top cap 112can include a refrigerator, such as shown in FIG. 16B. In variousembodiments, the top cap 112 can include an oven, such as shown in FIG.16C. In various embodiments, the top cap 112 can include an ice box,such as shown in FIG. 16D. In various embodiments, the top cap 112 caninclude a high heat burner, such as shown in FIG. 16E. In variousembodiments, the top cap 112 can include a warming drawer, such as shownin FIG. 16F. In various embodiments, the top cap 112 can include asmoker, a second burner box, or a ceramic cooker, such as shown in FIG.16G. In various embodiments, the top cap 112 can include a sous videcooker, such as shown in FIG. 16H. In various embodiments, the top cap112 can include a pellet grill, such as shown in FIG. 16I. In someembodiments, the top cap 112 can include a portion of a pellet grill,such as a pellet feeder or a pellet hopper.

In some embodiments, the top cap 112 can include an electricalconnection, such as to power the auger or feeder of a pellet grill or acompressor in a refrigerator. In some embodiments, the grill cart 106can include a main power connection, such as to connect to an externalpower supply, and each of the side assemblies 104 that requireelectricity can connect to a power supply in the grill cart 106. In someembodiments, a side assembly 104 can include the main power connection.The other side assemblies 104 and the grill assembly 102 can connect toa power supply in the side assembly 104 that includes the main powerconnection.

As discussed above in regards to FIGS. 2-3, the grill system 100 can bearranged in various ways. In some embodiments the grill system 100 canbe arranged such that all of the side assemblies 104 that include hotcomponents that include a heating element (e.g. high heat burner,smoker, pellet grill) can be located on one side of the grill assembly102 and the side assemblies 104 that include cold components thatinclude a cooling element or structure used for cooling (e.g.refrigerator, ice box) can be located on the opposite side of the grillassembly 102 from the hot components. In some embodiments, neutralcomponents that do not include a heating element, cooling element orstructure used for cooling (e.g. work surface, sink) can be located onthe cold component side, the hot component side, or dispersed betweenthe two sides.

FIG. 17 shows a front view of a grill system 100, along with aconnection sequence drawing insert 1702. The burner box 108 can includea first connection structure 1746, and the top cap 112 can include asecond connection structure 1748. The first connection structure 1746 isconfigured to mate with the second connection structure 1748 to couplethe grill assembly 102 to the side assembly 104. In some embodiments,the burner box 108 can include two or more first connection structures1746 on the same side or surface, and the top cap 112 can include two ormore second connection structures 1748 on the same side or surface, suchas to provide two connection locations between a top cap 112 and aburner box 108. In some embodiments, the burner box 108 can include fourfirst connection structures 1746, such as two first connection structure1746 on each side of the burner box 108. In some embodiments, multiplefirst connection structures 1746 can be identical to each other ormirror images of each other. In some embodiments, the two connectionlocations can be substantially horizontally aligned with each other. Insome embodiments, the two connection locations can be substantiallyvertically aligned with each other.

In some embodiments, a top cap 112 can include two second connectionstructures 1748. In some embodiments, the two second connectionstructures 1748 can be on the same side or surface of the top cap 112,such as to mate with two connection structures on the same side orsurface of the burner box 108.

In seen in the embodiments of FIGS. 6-7 and 17-18, in some examples,first connection structure 1746 is a male connection element 1750 andsecond connection structure 1748 is a female connection element 1752, orthe reverse can be true. In some embodiments, one of the burner box 108and the top cap 112 can include a female connection element 1752 and theother can include a male connection element 1750. In variousembodiments, the first connection structures 1746, also referred to asthe male connection element 1750, can include a bracket 729 orprotrusion, that can extend away from the burner box 108 or top cap 112and provide a graspable handle. Further, in some embodiments, thebracket 729 can provide an extension for the connection structure, suchas to extend the connection structure from the burner box 108 into thetop cap 112, as shown in FIG. 17.

In various embodiments, the male connection element 1750 can include aprojection 1756. The projection 1756 can be configured to mate with arecess 1758 defined by the female connection element 1752. In someembodiments, the male connection element 1750 extends from the burnerbox 108 and the female connection element 1752 is within the top cap112. In other embodiments, the female connection element 1752 extendsfrom the burner box 108 and the male connection element 1750 is withinthe top cap 112.

The steps of connecting the male connection element 1750 with the femaleconnection element 1752 will now be described with reference to theinset schematic depiction of the connection sequence in FIG. 17. Thefemale connection element 1752 can include a sloped surface 1760configured for the projection 1756 to run along as the side assembly 104is moved towards the grill assembly 102. The projection 1756 runningalong the sloped surface 1760 can raise or lift the side assembly 104relative to the grill assembly 102. Once the projection 1756 hastraveled past the end of the sloped surface 1760, the side assembly 104can be lowered into a resting position, thereby resulting in theprojection 1756 being disposed within the recess 1758 defined by theconnection structure. The recess 1758 can restrict the movement of theprojection 1756, such that the side assembly 104 cannot be separatedfrom the grill assembly 102 without first being lifted or raised todisplace the projection 1756 from the recess 1758.

In some embodiments, the top cap 112 can include the male connectionelement 1750 and the burner box can include the female connectionelement 1752. In some embodiments, the bracket 729 can include thefemale connection element 1752, such as the recess 1758 and the slopedsurface 1760 being disposed on the bracket 729.

In various embodiments, the first connection structures 1746 such asbracket 729 for coupling the side assemblies with the grill assembly canbe graspable, such that a user can hold a connection structure to moveor lift the burner box. In some embodiments, the first connectionstructure 1746 can have a length of at least two inches, three inches,four inches, or five inches, such as to provide sufficient graspablestructure for an average human hand. In various embodiments, the firstconnection structure 1746 can have a length of no more than 12 inches.In various embodiments, the first connection structure 1746 can have alength of no more than 10 inches, no more than 8 inches, or no more than6 inches.

FIG. 18 shows an alternate embodiment of a female connection element1852. In some embodiments, the female connection element 1852 caninclude two apertures 1864, 1866, such as to couple with two projectionsfrom a male connection element, such as first connection structure 1746shown in FIGS. 6-7, 17 and 19. In some embodiments, the two apertures1864, 1866 are the same as each other. In some embodiments, the twoapertures 1864, 1866 can have different shapes. In some embodiments,each aperture 1864, 1866 can include a sloped surface 1860, 1862 and arecess 1858, 1859. In some embodiments, a top aperture 1864 is longerthan a bottom aperture 1866 as shown in FIG. 18. Now referring to FIGS.18 and 19, the top aperture 1864 of FIG. 18 is configured to receive thetop projection 1756 of the bracket 729, while the bottom aperture 1866of FIG. 18 is configured to receive the bottom projection 1756 of thebracket 729.

FIG. 19 shows a front view of a grill system 100, along with aconnection sequence drawing insert 1902. Similar to the connectionsequence drawing insert 1702, the connection sequence drawing insert1902 shows a sequence of the male connection element 1750 connectingwith the female connection element 1852. The connection sequence willnow be described with respect to FIGS. 18-19. The female connectionelement 1852 can include two sloped surfaces 1860, 1862 configured forthe projections 1756 to run along as the side assembly 104 is movedtowards the grill assembly 102. The projections 1756 running along thesloped surfaces 1860, 1862 can raise or lift the side assembly 104relative to the grill assembly 102. Once the projections 1756 havetraveled past the end of the sloped surfaces 1860, 1862, the sideassembly 104 can be lowered into a resting position, thereby resultingin the projections 1756 being disposed within the two recesses 1858,1859 defined by the connection structure. The recesses 1858, 1859 canrestrict the movement of the projections 1756, such that the sideassembly 104 cannot be separated from the grill assembly 102 withoutfirst being lifted or raised to displace the projection 1756 from therecess 1858.

Connection Between Top Cap and Side Cart

As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the top cap 112 can include oneor more projections 1042, which can extend into one or more aperturesdefined by the side cart 110. The top cap 112 can further include alocking mechanism 1044. The locking mechanism 1044 can include a lockingpin 2064. When the locking pin 2064 is in a retracted position (shown inthe FIG. 20A), the top cap 112 is not locked to the side cart 110. Whenthe locking pin 2064 is in the extended position (shown in FIG. 20B),the top cap 112 is locked to the side cart 110, such that the top cap112 cannot be lifted off the side cart 110 without first unlocking thetop cap 112 from the side cart 110. In the extended position, thelocking pin 2064 can extend through a portion of the side cart 110, suchas a portion that defines the aperture for the projection 1042. Thelocking pin 2064 can further extend into the projection 1042, in someembodiments. In some embodiments, the locking pin 2064 can be manuallyactuated or spring actuated.

Methods

FIG. 21 is flow chart depicting a method 2166 in accordance with variousembodiments herein. The method 2166 can provide a method for assemblinga grill system. In some embodiments, the method 2166 can includealigning a burner box with a grill cart 2168. The method 2166 canfurther include coupling the burner box to the grill cart 2170.

In some embodiments, the method 2166 can include aligning a top cap witha side cart 2172. The method 2166 can further include coupling the topcap to the side cart 2174. It should be understood that steps 2168 and2170 related to forming the grill assembly can take place before orafter steps 2172 and 2174 related to forming the side assembly.

In various embodiments, the method 2166 can further include aligning thegrill assembly with the side assembly 2176. The method 2166 can furtherinclude coupling the grill assembly to the side assembly 2178.

Various embodiments of the method 2166 can further include aligning asecond top cap with a second side cart and coupling the second top capwith the second side cart to form a second side assembly. The method2166 can further include aligning and coupling the second side assemblyto the grill assembly (on the opposite side from the first sideassembly) or to the first side assembly (on the opposite side from thegrill assembly).

In some embodiments, coupling the side assembly to the grill assembly2178 includes inserting a portion of a first connection structure into aportion of a second connection structure. It will be understood thatadditional steps of inserting portions of connection structures intoother portions of connection structures can be included in the method2166 to account for all of the connections structures includes in thespecific grill systems.

In some embodiments, coupling the side assembly to the grill assembly2178 can include latching the toe kick panel of the grill assembly witha toe kick panel of the side assembly.

In some embodiments, the method 2166 can further include transitioningthe first side cart from a folded position to an upright position priorto coupling the first side assembly to the grill assembly. In someembodiments, the method 2166 can further include transitioned the grillcart from a folded position to an upright position prior to coupling theburner box to the grill cart.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referentsunless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be notedthat the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or”unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and theappended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus,or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform aparticular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase“configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases suchas arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed,manufactured and arranged, and the like.

All publications and patent applications in this specification areindicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which thisinvention pertains. All publications and patent applications are hereinincorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individualpublication or patent application was specifically and individuallyindicated by reference.

As used herein, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints shallinclude all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 2 to 8 includes2.1, 2.8, 5.3, 7, etc.).

The headings used herein are provided for consistency with suggestionsunder 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. Theseheadings shall not be viewed to limit or characterize the invention(s)set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. As anexample, although the headings refer to a “Field,” such claims shouldnot be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe theso-called technical field. Further, a description of a technology in the“Background” is not an admission that technology is prior art to anyinvention(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to beconsidered as a characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issuedclaims.

The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the followingdetailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and describedso that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand theprinciples and practices. As such, aspects have been described withreference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques.However, it should be understood that many variations and modificationsmay be made while remaining within the spirit and scope herein.

1-22. (canceled)
 23. A grill system, comprising: a grill assemblycomprising a grill cart and a burner box configured to couple to a topportion of the grill cart, the burner box comprising a first connectionstructure; and a first side assembly comprising a first side cart and afirst top cap configured to couple to a top portion of the first sidecart, the first top cap comprising a second connection structure;wherein the first connection structure and the second connectionstructure mate together to couple the grill assembly to the first sideassembly; wherein the first connection structure comprises a firstbracket extending away from the burner box in a first direction from afirst side of the burner box; and wherein the second connectionstructure defines a first bracket aperture, wherein the first bracketaperture is configured for a portion of the first bracket to fit withinsuch that the first bracket extends within the first top cap when thefirst connection structure mates with the second connection structure.24. The grill system of claim 23, wherein the burner box furthercomprises a third connection structure, wherein the third connectionstructure comprises a second bracket extending in a second direction,opposite from the first direction, from a second side of the burner boxthat is opposite from the first side of the burner box.
 25. The grillsystem of claim 24, further comprising a second side assembly, thesecond side assembly comprising a second side cart and a second top cap;and wherein the second top cap comprises a fourth connection structure,wherein the fourth connection structure defines a third bracketaperture, wherein the third bracket aperture is configured for a portionof the third bracket to fit within when the third connection structuremates with the fourth connection structure.
 26. The grill system ofclaim 25, wherein the first side assembly is configured in a right-handconfiguration such that the second connection structure is on a leftportion of the first side assembly and the second side assembly isconfigured in a left-hand configuration such that the fourth connectionstructure is on a right portion of the second side assembly.
 27. Thegrill system of claim 23, wherein the first bracket is at least 2 incheslong and not more than 12 inches long.
 28. The grill system of claim 24,wherein the first bracket is identical to the second bracket.
 29. Thegrill system of claim 23, wherein the first connection structure isgraspable.
 30. The grill system of claim 23, wherein the first top capincludes a functional element selected from the group consisting of: asecond burner box, an ice box, a smoker, an oven, a sink, a worksurface, a warming drawer, a sous vide cooker, a high heat burner, aceramic cooker, a portion of a pellet grill, pellet feeder, pellethopper, a pellet grill, or a refrigerator.
 31. The grill system of claim23, further comprising a second side assembly, the second side assemblycomprising a second side cart and a second top cap configured to coupleto a top portion of the second side cart; wherein the second top capcomprising a fourth connection structure configured to mate with a thirdconnection structure of the burner box.
 32. The grill system of claim31, wherein the first top cap comprises a first functional elementselected from the group consisting of a second burner box, an ice box, asmoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous videcooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portionof a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator;and wherein the second top cap comprises a second functional elementselected from the group consisting of a second burner box, an ice box, asmoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, a sous videcooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill, a portionof a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or a refrigerator.33. The grill system of claim 32, wherein the first functional elementis not equivalent to the second functional element.
 34. A grill system,comprising: a grill assembly comprising a grill cart and a burner boxconfigured to couple to a top portion of the grill cart, the burner boxcomprising a first connection structure; and a first side assemblycomprising a first side cart and a first top cap configured to couple toa top portion of the first side cart, the first top cap comprising asecond connection structure, wherein the first side cart is configuredto be transitioned between a folded state and an upright state; whereinthe first connection structure and the second connection structure matetogether to couple the grill assembly to the first side assembly;wherein the first connection structure comprises a first receivingbracket, wherein the first receiving bracket is disposed within theburner box; wherein the second connection structure comprises a firstbracket extending away from the top cap in a first direction; whereinthe first connection structure defines a first bracket aperture, whereinthe first bracket aperture is configured for a portion of the firstbracket to fit within such that the first bracket extends within theburner box when the first connection structure mates with the secondconnection structure; wherein the first bracket comprises a firstprojection of the first bracket; wherein the first receiving bracketdefines a first receiving aperture of the first receiving bracketconfigured to receive the first projection of the first bracket; whereinthe first receiving bracket comprises a sloped surface that defines aportion of the first receiving aperture of the first receiving bracket,wherein the sloped surface is configured to guide the first projectionof the first bracket when the side assembly is mated to the grillassembly; and wherein the first top cap comprises a first functionalelement selected from the group consisting of: a second burner box, anice box, a smoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, a warming drawer, asous vide cooker, a high heat burner, a ceramic cooker, a pellet grill,a portion of a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, a pellet feeder, or arefrigerator.
 35. The grill system of claim 34, wherein the firstconnection structure further comprises a second receiving bracket,wherein the second receiving bracket is disposed within the burner box,wherein the second connection structure further comprises a secondbracket extending away from the top cap in the first direction; andwherein the first connection structure defines a second bracketapertures, wherein the second bracket aperture is configured for aportion of the second bracket to fit within such that the second bracketextends within the burner box when the first connection structure mateswith the second connection structure.
 36. The grill system of claim 35,wherein the second bracket comprises a first projection of the secondbracket; wherein the second receiving bracket defines a first receivingaperture of the second receiving bracket configured to receive the firstprojection of the second bracket; and wherein the second receivingbracket comprises a sloped surface that defines a portion of the firstreceiving aperture of the second receiving bracket, wherein the slopedsurface is configured to guide the first projection of the secondbracket when the side assembly is mated to the grill assembly.
 37. Thegrill system of claim 34, further comprising: a second side assemblycomprising a second side cart and a second top cap configured to coupleto a top portion of the second side cart, the second top cap comprisinga fourth connection structure, wherein the second side cart isconfigured to be transitioned between a folded state and an uprightstate; wherein the burner box further comprises a third connectionstructure; wherein the third connection structure and the fourthconnection structure mate together to couple the grill assembly to thesecond side assembly; and wherein the second top cap comprises a secondfunctional element selected from the group consisting of: a secondburner box, an ice box, a smoker, an oven, a sink a work surface, awarming drawer, a sous vide cooker, a high heat burner, a ceramiccooker, a pellet grill, a portion of a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, apellet feeder, or a refrigerator.
 38. The grill system of claim 37,wherein the second functional element is different than the firstfunctional element.
 39. The grill system of claim 37, wherein the fourthconnection structure comprises a first bracket of the second top capextending away from the top cap in a second direction; wherein the thirdconnection structure is on an opposite side of the burner box from thefirst connection structure, wherein the third connection structurecomprises a second receiving bracket, wherein the second receivingbracket is disposed within the burner box, wherein the third connectionstructure defines a second bracket aperture, wherein the second bracketaperture is configured for a portion of the first bracket of the secondtop cap to fit within such that the first bracket of the second top capextends within the burner box when the third connection structure mateswith the fourth connection structure; wherein the first bracket of thesecond top cap comprises a first projection of the first bracket of thesecond top cap; wherein the second receiving bracket defines a firstreceiving aperture of the second receiving bracket configured to receivethe first projection of the first bracket of the second top cap; andwherein the second receiving bracket comprises a sloped surface thatdefines a portion of the first receiving aperture of the secondreceiving bracket, wherein the sloped surface is configured to guide thefirst projection of the first bracket of the second top cap when thesecond side assembly is mated to the grill assembly.
 40. The grillsystem of claim 34, wherein the first top cap comprises one or moredownward connection projections, and the first side cart defines one ormore connection recesses, wherein the one or more connection recessesare configured to accept the one or more downward connection projectionsto couple the first top cap to the first side cart, wherein the firsttop cap comprises a locking mechanism configured to secure the first topcap to the first side cart; and wherein the locking mechanism comprisesa locking pin that translates in a direction that is perpendicular tothe one or more downward connection projections.
 41. A grill system,comprising: a grill assembly comprising a grill cart and a burner boxconfigured to couple to a top portion of the grill cart, the burner boxcomprising a first connection structure; and a first side assemblycomprising a first side cart and a first top cap configured to couple toa top portion of the first side cart, the first top cap comprising asecond connection structure; wherein the first connection structure andthe second connection structure mate together to couple the grillassembly to the first side assembly; wherein the second connectionstructure comprises a first bracket and a second bracket extending awayfrom the top cap in a first direction from the same side of the top cap;wherein the first connection structure defines a first bracket apertureand a second bracket aperture, wherein the first bracket aperture isconfigured for a portion of the first bracket to fit within and thesecond bracket aperture is configured for a portion of the secondbracket to fit within such that the first bracket and the second bracketextend within the burner box when the first connection structure mateswith the second connection structure; wherein the first bracketcomprises a first projection of the first bracket and the second bracketcomprises a first projection of the second bracket; wherein the firstconnection structure comprises a first receiving bracket and a secondreceiving bracket, wherein the first receiving bracket and the secondreceiving bracket are disposed within the burner box; wherein the firstreceiving bracket defines a first receiving aperture of the firstreceiving bracket configured to receive the first projection of thefirst bracket and the second receiving bracket defines a first receivingaperture of the second receiving bracket configured to receive the firstprojection of the second bracket; wherein the first receiving bracketcomprises a sloped surface that defines a portion of the first receivingaperture of the first receiving bracket, wherein the sloped surface isconfigured to guide the first projection of the first bracket when thegrill assembly is mated to the side assembly; wherein the secondreceiving bracket comprises a sloped surface that defines a portion ofthe first receiving aperture of the second receiving bracket, whereinthe sloped surface of the second receiving bracket is configured toguide the first projection of the second bracket when the grill assemblyis mated to the side assembly; wherein the first top cap comprises oneor more downward connection projections, and the first side cart definesone or more connection recesses, wherein the one or more connectionrecesses are configured to accept the one or more downward connectionprojections to couple the first top cap to the first side cart; whereinthe first top cap comprises a locking mechanism configured to secure thefirst top cap to the first side cart; and wherein the locking mechanismcomprises a locking pin that translates in a direction that isperpendicular to the one or more downward connection projections. 42.The grill system of claim 41, wherein the first top cap comprises afirst functional element selected from the group consisting of: a secondburner box, an ice box, a smoker, an oven, a sink, a work surface, awarming drawer, a sous vide cooker, a high heat burner, a ceramiccooker, a pellet grill, a portion of a pellet grill, a pellet hopper, apellet feeder, or a refrigerator.